As you probably already know, it is imperative to brush your teeth two to three times a day if you want to keep your mouth clean and healthy and your breath smelling fresh. However, what you might not know is that it is possible to do harm to your teeth when you’re brushing them. Luckily, avoiding these common mistakes can help.
1. Not Using the Right Toothbrush
Not all toothbrushes are created equally. One problem that a lot of people have is choosing a toothbrush that has too-stiff bristles. A toothbrush that is too “hard” can scrub away the enamel on your teeth and irritate your gums. Instead, you’ll want to look for a softer toothbrush that will still do a good job of cleaning your mouth without being so harsh. Additionally, for your comfort, it’s good to look for a toothbrush that is comfortable to hold in your hand and that is sized so that you can move it around in your mouth easily.
2. Brushing Too Hard or Too Much
Believe it or not, there is a such thing as brushing your teeth too much. In general, you should only brush your teeth two or three times per day. Brushing an extra time or two here and there isn’t a big deal, but if you’re in the habit of brushing your teeth too frequently, you should know that you can damage the enamel. Additionally, when you’re brushing, you should use up-and-down motions without pressing down too hard. If you brush your teeth too hard, this can damage your teeth or affect your gums.
3. Failing to Swap Toothbrushes
It can be easy to get in the habit of using the same toothbrush for months on end. However, the problem with this is that your toothbrush can become overly worn out so that it can’t do its job properly. Additionally, your toothbrush can harbor bacteria as well. It’s best to replace your toothbrush every three months or so; you may need to replace it sooner if you get sick or if you notice that your toothbrush looks damaged.
As you can see, there are a few common mistakes that you can easily make when brushing your teeth that can actually cause you problems. However, if you avoid these common mistakes and follow any advice that you have been given by your dentist, you can help ensure that you brush properly and keep your teeth healthy.
